Is Cairo safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Cairo is a huge, chaotic city, but violent crime against tourists is uncommon, and the main sights are well guarded. The realistic problems are persistent touts and scams, traffic and the heat. Visitors who use ride-hailing apps, agree prices in advance and dress modestly usually have no serious issues.
The real risks
Touts and scams
Around the Pyramids, Khan el-Khalili and Tahrir, strangers may claim a site is closed and steer you to a perfume, papyrus or tea shop. Thank them and keep walking.
Camel and horse rides
At Giza, handlers can be aggressive and demand more money after the ride. Agree a total price in Egyptian pounds before getting on, or skip the ride.
Menu and price tricks
Menus without prices, or an English menu with higher prices, appear near tourist sights. Ask the price first and check the bill.
Traffic
Crossing roads is the biggest everyday danger. Cross with locals, and use pedestrian bridges or underpasses where possible.
Terrorism and security
Governments advise a general threat of terrorism in Egypt, and there are many security checkpoints. Carry your passport and follow official travel advice, which also restricts travel to some remote regions.
Areas and times to take care
Downtown, Zamalek, Garden City, Giza and Maadi are all visited normally, and many streets are busy until after midnight. Take more care in crowded markets such as Khan el-Khalili for pocket-picking and pushy selling, and around the Giza plateau entrances for touts. Avoid political gatherings and demonstrations.
Getting around safely
Uber and Careem are the safest and easiest way to get around, and they work from the airport. If you take a street taxi, agree the price before getting in. The metro is cheap and safe, with women-only carriages. Avoid driving yourself; traffic is intense and rules are loosely followed. Allow 1–1.5 hours from downtown to Giza.
Solo and women travellers
Many women travel to Cairo alone, but street harassment — comments, staring and sometimes touching in crowds — is common. Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees, loose clothing), use the metro's women-only carriages and ride-hailing apps, and consider a reputable female-friendly guide for the bazaar areas. Firmly ignoring comments and walking on usually works; in mosques, women must cover their hair.
Health, water and heat
Do not drink tap water; use bottled or filtered water and be careful with ice and raw salads in cheap places. Heat is a serious issue from May to September, when highs reach 34–38°C, so visit sights at opening time and carry water. Air pollution is high, and the spring khamsin wind can bring dust storms.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is Cairo safe for tourists?
Generally yes in the areas visitors go. The main problems are touts, scams and traffic. Check official advice for remote regions of Egypt.
Is it safe to take a taxi in Cairo?
Use Uber or Careem for fixed prices. With street taxis, agree the fare before you get in.
What is the emergency number in Egypt?
122 for police, 123 for ambulance and 126 for the tourist police.